Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (M.S.) - Exercise Science Specialization

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus

Exercise science students in a lab.

Program Coordinator/Contact

Lee Weidauer, Associate Professor
School of Health and Consumer Sciences
Wagner Hall 443, Box 2275A
605-688-4630

Program Information

The M.S. in Nutrition and Exercise Sciences provides an opportunity to specialize in Nutritional Sciences or Exercise Science. Students are prepared for careers in clinical, industry, or research fields. A partial list includes strength and conditioning, clinical exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, worksite wellness, fitness center management, extension, sports performance, or community health.

Course Delivery Format

The program consists of lecture, laboratory, and experiential learning opportunities.

Program Mission

The mission of the program is to prepare students as interprofessional leaders who integrate research while promoting the role of nutrition and exercise science in meeting the needs of creating healthier communities in an ever changing local, national, and global environment.

Student Learning Outcomes

Content Knowledge: Students will be able to describe the impact of nutrition on biochemical, metabolic, and physiological processes that are prevalent with physical activity and apply these concepts to various settings.
Communication skills and argument deconstruction: Students will develop, evaluate, communicate, and defend or refute a position using peer-reviewed literature.
Evidence Based Practice: Students will critically evaluate and synthesize evidence to guide decision making.
Career Preparedness: Students will construct a resume and cover letter that can be used to apply for positions upon graduation.

Course Load Information

Students enrolled in six or more state-supported credits within a given semester will be charged the current special discipline fee.

Available Options for Graduate Degrees

Master of Science	Option A - Thesis	32 Credit Hours
	Option B - Research/Design Paper	32 Credit Hours
	Option C - Coursework Only	35 Credit Hours

Core Requirements

EXS 750 - Advanced Exercise Physiology Credits: 3
EXS Electives Credits: 9
HNS 708 - Applied Research and Evidence Based Analysis Credits: 3
HNS 790 - Seminar (COM) Credits: 1
NUTR 725 - Nutrition and Human Performance Credits: 3

Select one of the following options

Option A - Thesis

HNS 798 - Thesis (COM) Credits: 1-7 (5 credits required)
Electives Credits: 8

Option B - Research/Design Paper

HNS 788 - Research Problems/Projects (COM) Credits: 1-7 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 10

Option C - Coursework Only

HNS 796 - Field Experience (COM) Credits: 1-9 (3 credits required)
Electives Credits: 13

Total Required Credits: 32 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)

Additional Admissions Requirements

GRE: Not required
TOEFL: 79-80 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5
Duolingo: 110

Letter of application stating the following: primary area of interest (dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, etc.); desired research focus; long-term goals outlining career goals; interest in assistantship (teaching or research); if interested in an assistantship describe experiences to support the assistantship; reason(s) for attending graduate school; current professional certifications and credentials; an interview (in person or via phone) is highly encouraged but not required.
Two recommendations letters from professionals knowledgeable in applicants graduate school potential.

Master’s Nutrition and Exercise Sciences Admission Requirements

Entering students for the master’s degree will be required to have a Bachelor’s degree in dietetics, exercise science, nutrition, biology, chemistry, epidemiology, or other related field from an accredited institution. Students with other educational backgrounds may be admitted conditionally. They will be required to complete the necessary coursework to eliminate deficiencies in their background during their first semester in the program.

Prerequisites for the master’s degree include STAT 281 or equivalent, NUTR 315, CHEM 106/108 or CHEM 112/114 or equivalent, BIOL 221, BIOL 325, and for students in the Exercise Science Specialization EXS 350 or equivalent.

General Requirements

Graduate students should consult with their advisor before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .